I have previously explained the learning disability that affects calculation- dyscalculia. “This learning difficulty involves brain areas that handle math and number-related skills and understanding.” The NIH has determined “3–7% of all children, adolescents, and adults suffer from dyscalculia”
“Sometimes known as ‘number blindness’ it was first noted over 100 years ago. The cause is known to be genetic, so it cannot be cured. According to the APA, both dyslexia and dyscalculia fall under the same diagnosis: “Specific learning disorder.” Struggles with disability can persist into adulthood. Those with the disorder “can often find they also have difficulty understanding money, time, distances, directions and so on.”
Driving is a complicated process; the driver has to be aware of speed limits, distance, and signs. Dyscalculics can face several problems when behind the wheel:
- A poor understanding of directions, such as getting confused between right and left turns
- Difficulty determining driving distance
- Difficulty reading numbers on highway signs
As with any disability, the key element for overcoming dyscalculia while driving is to practice(off road, in this case). Other suggestions for managing the driving experience include:
- Know the traffic rules.
- Use the voice activation feature of a GPS.
- Drive with a passenger who has driving experience.
- Use a digital speedometer.
Drive safely!
